Applewood Seed Co. Announces Strategic Leadership Changes
to Drive Business Growth

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – JANUARY 2, 2024

Applewood Seed Co., an employee-owned company, the leading supplier and wholesaler of open-pollinated flower seeds in the U.S., proudly announces two pivotal promotions within its leadership team. Mary Gomane has been promoted to Vice President of Sales & Production and Joe Eenigenburg has advanced to the role of Director of Sales & Marketing. These strategic moves underscore Applewood Seed’s commitment to continued growth and excellence in the flower seed industry.

Promotion of Sales and Production Executive

Mary Gomane, previously the Director of Sales & Purchasing, will continue to work closely with Norm Poppe, CEO of Applewood Seed Co., and will be expanding her responsibilities to include overseeing the flower seed production processes. Her role is crucial in maintaining the highest standards of quality and supply of Applewood Seed’s products. Based in Colorado, she will continue to enhance the company’s position as a premier supplier and maintain its reputation as a trusted source for wildflower and garden flower seeds.

With nearly 30 years of experience in the seed industry, Mary’s exceptional track record in sales and purchasing has been instrumental in Applewood Seed’s growth and success. Her expertise in both the technical and commercial aspects of the business makes her the ideal candidate to lead the Sales and Production departments. Mary holds a Master of Business Administration from Thomas College in Waterville, Maine, a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Maine, and is a certified Master Gardener.

“Mary has consistently demonstrated her dedication to the seed industry and her commitment to delivering top-quality products,” said Poppe. “Her extensive experience in both sales and production, combined with her industry knowledge, makes her the perfect fit for this role. We have no doubt that Mary will excel in leading our sales and production efforts to new heights.”

Advancement of Sales and Marketing Leader

Alongside Mary’s promotion, Joe Eenigenburg is a key addition to the account leadership team who previously served as the Marketing & Sales Operations Manager. Joe has been an integral part of Applewood Seed’s sales and marketing teams and has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a comprehensive understanding of the company’s products and customers. In his new role, Joe will be responsible for leading the account management teams and developing innovative marketing strategies to enhance Applewood Seed’s presence in both domestic and international markets.

Joe Eenigenburg joined Applewood Seed Co. in 2018 and quickly rose through the ranks due to his outstanding performance and dedication. Over the years, he has established strong relationships with customers across various sectors. His ability to understand the unique needs of each customer and tailor solutions to meet those needs has contributed to the company’s success. Joe holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Colorado (Denver) and a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership from Purdue University (Fort Wayne).

“Joe has been a valuable asset to our team, and we are excited to see him step into this new role,” commented Poppe. “Because of his deep understanding of our products and market dynamics, combined with his creativity in marketing, it makes him the perfect fit for this role. Joe is dedicated to customer relationships and will be instrumental in driving our future sales and marketing initiatives.”

“These changes in leadership are part of Applewood Seed’s commitment to continuous growth and providing the best products and services in the seed industry,” Poppe continued. “We are confident that with Mary and Joe at the helm of our sales, marketing, and production divisions, Applewood Seed Co. will continue to flourish and maintain its position as a leading supplier in the industry.”

About Applewood Seed Company

Founded by Gene and Dee Milstein in 1965, Applewood Seed Co. has grown from humble beginnings to the nation’s leading supplier of flower seeds. With a rich history of collecting wildflower seeds in the Colorado mountains, Applewood Seed Co. has evolved into a company with research and development gardens, an extensive network of seed growers, and a state-of-the-art seed testing laboratory. Serving a diverse range of customers including professional growers, seed companies, retailers, manufacturers, distributors, landscapers, government agencies, and more, Applewood Seed Co. remains committed to delivering high-quality, open-pollinated seeds for a wide range of geographic regions and special applications.

For more information on Applewood Seed Co., contact Joe Eenigenburg at (303) 431-7333 or JEenigenburg@applewoodseed.com. Otherwise visit www.applewoodseed.com and connect on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.